Upregulation Of Connective Tissue Growth Factor Research Articles

9-POHSA prevents NF-kB activation and ameliorates LPS-induced inflammation in rat hepatocytes.

Liver inflammation has become increasingly prevalent in recent years, leading to the development of diseases like hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, and fatty liver disease. One factor that has been linked to liver inflammation is increased levels of lipopolysaccharides (LPS), which can be caused by poor diets and sedentary lifestyles that contribute to liver inflammation. There is promising research on a new class of lipids called fatty acid esters of hydroxy fatty acids (FAHFAs), which have been shown to potentiate insulin release and exert an anti-inflammatory effect. Specifically, one type of FAHFA called 9-POHSA (palmitoleic acid ester of 9-hydroxy stearic acid) has been studied for its potential to attenuate inflammation-related indexes induced by LPS in hepatocytes, which play a critical role in the progression of liver inflammation. This study found that following LPS treatment, tumor necrosis factor- α, interleukin-6, and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) were upregulated and increased cell migration, but 9-POHSA pre-treatment attenuated the upregulation of these markers and prevented cell migration induced by LPS. Using flowcytometry analysis, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) was found to be responsible for CTGF upregulation. In addition, the effects of 9-POHSA were likely associated with its inhibition of the activation of the NF-kB. These results suggest that 9-POHSA has potential as a therapy for liver inflammation and fibrosis by attenuating inflammation-related indexes induced by LPS in hepatocytes. This study provides important insight into the mechanisms of liver inflammation and the potential for new treatments to address liver diseases.

Endothelial cell‑derived connective tissue growth factor stimulates fibroblast differentiation into myofibroblasts through integrin αVβ3.

Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is expressed at high levels in blood vessels, where it functions as a regulator of a number of physiological processes, such as cell proliferation, angiogenesis and wound healing. In addition, CTGF has been reported to be involved in various pathological processes, such as tumor development and tissue fibrosis. However, one of the main roles of CTGF is to promote the differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts, a process that is involved in disease progression. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the possible mechanism by which pathological changes in the microvasculature can direct the activation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts in the context of hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R). Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and normal human dermal fibroblasts were used in the present study. The expression levels of CTGF were determined by western blot analysis and reverse transcription-semi-quantitative PCR. To analyze the paracrine effect of HUVECs on fibroblasts, HUVECs were infected with CTGF-expressing adenovirus and then the culture supernatant of HUVECs was collected to treat fibroblasts. The formation of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) stress fibers in fibroblasts were observed by immunofluorescence staining. It was found that H/R significantly increased CTGF expression in HUVECs. CTGF was also able to directly induce the differentiation of fibroblasts into myofibroblasts. In addition, the culture supernatant from CTGF-overexpressing HUVECs stimulated the formation of α-SMA stress fibers in fibroblasts, which was inhibited by treatment with a functional blocking antibody against integrin αVβ3 and to a lesser degree by a blocking antibody against α6 integrin. The mechanism of CTGF upregulation by H/R in HUVECs was then evaluated, where it was found that the CTGF protein was more stable in the H/R group compared with that in the normoxic control group. These findings suggest that CTGF expressed and secreted by vascular endothelial cells under ischemia/reperfusion conditions can exert a paracrine influence on neighboring fibroblasts, which may in turn promote myofibroblast-associated diseases. This association may hold potential as a therapeutic target.

Sustained AT1R stimulation induces upregulation of growth factors in human cardiac fibroblasts via Gαq/TGF-β/ERK signaling that influences myocyte hypertrophy

Stimulation of angiotensin II receptor (ATR) with angiotensin II (Ang II) accelerates cardiac fibroblast activation, resulting in upregulation of cytokines and growth factors. Growth factors were strongly upregulated in animal models of myocardial fibrosis and hypertrophy as well as patients with heart failure. Nevertheless, the signal transduction of ATR for upregulation of growth factors in human cardiac fibroblasts contributing to myocyte hypertrophy have not fully understood. Long-term Ang II treatment of human cardiac fibroblasts provokes the synthesis and secretion of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), transforming growth factor beta1 (TGF-β1), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) through the AT1R subtype. Blockade of Gαq, not Gαi or Gα12/13, protein signaling inhibited AT1R-mediated upregulation of CTGF, TGF-β1, and VEGF. In addition, AT1R overstimulation induced upregulation of growth factors via the TGF-β-dependent and ERK1/2-dependent pathways. Growth factors secreted from cardiac fibroblasts are necessary for the induction of hypertrophic markers, atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and β-myosin heavy chain (β-MHC), resulting in myocyte hypertrophy. Candesartan, irbesartan, and valsartan had greater effects than losartan for blockade of fibrotic and hypertrophic effects of Ang II. Our data support the concept whereby sustained AT1R stimulation contributes to the development of myocardial fibrosis and hypertrophy, and advances understanding of this complex AT1R signaling, including fibroblasts-myocytes communication during pathological conditions.

Complement complex 1 subunit q-mediated hepatic stellate cell activation with connective tissue growth factor elevation is a prognostic factor for survival in rat and human chronic liver diseases.

Complement complex 1 subunit q (C1q) has multiple functions, including cell migration, in addition to its traditional complement-activating effect. Research shows C1q is a ligand for frizzled receptors (FZDs). FZD-induced yes-associated protein (YAP)/transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) alternate Wnt signaling activation induces connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) production and hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. However, no study exists in which C1q directly induces CTGF in HSCs. Here, we investigated the role of C1q in HSC activation. Human HSCs (LX2) were incubated with C1q to assess HSC activation. C1q and fibrotic markers were assessed using immunohistochemistry, immunoblotting, and quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction in cirrhotic rats administered CCl4 for 21 weeks. Serum C1q, liver function, and fibrosis score were measured in 91 patients with chronic liver disease. The correlations between serum C1q and liver function, fibrosis score, and survival prognosis were examined. C1q-activated LX2s showed morphologic changes, up-regulation of CTGF, tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMP-1),and alternate Wnt signal genes FZD2, TAZ, and cysteine-rich angiogenic inducer 61 (Cyr61). Cirrhotic rat liver C1q expression correlated with the Azan-positive area and expression of CTGF, TIMP-1, hyaluronan synthase (HAS)1, HAS3, and CD44. Expression of C1q protein and C1q, CTGF, and TIMP-1 genes were higher in deceased cirrhotic rat livers compared to surviving rats. Human serum C1q levels increased in liver cirrhosis compared to chronic hepatitis and correlated with liver fibrosis and functional markers. Ten patients suffered liver-related death over a 66-month observation period. The C1q cut-off value (11 mg/dl) showed patients with serum values < 11 mg/dl had longer rates of survival compared to C1q ≥ 11 mg/dl. Conclusion: C1q-mediated HSC activation in liver fibrosis is associated with CTGF elevation. Additionally, serum C1q may be diagnostic for survival in human chronic liver diseases.

MiR-18a-5p Targets Connective Tissue Growth Factor Expression and Inhibits Transforming Growth Factor β2-Induced Trabecular Meshwork Cell Contractility.

Increased trabecular meshwork (TM) cell and tissue contractility is a driver of the reduced outflow facility and elevation of intraocular pressure (IOP) associated with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is an established mediator of TM cell contractility, and its expression is increased in POAG due to transforming growth factor β 2 (TGFβ2) signalling. Inhibiting CTGF upregulation using microRNA (miRNA) mimetics could represent a new treatment option for POAG. A combination of in silico predictive tools and a literature review identified a panel of putative CTGF-targeting miRNAs. Treatment of primary human TM cells with 5 ng/mL TGFβ2 for 24 h identified miR-18a-5p as a consistent responder, being upregulated in cells from five different human donors. Transfection of primary donor TM cells with 20 nM synthetic miR-18a-5p mimic reduced TGFβ2-induced CTGF protein expression, and stable lentiviral-mediated overexpression of this miRNA reduced TGFβ2-induced contraction of collagen gels. Together, these findings identify miR-18a-5p as a mediator of the TGFβ2 response and a candidate therapeutic agent for glaucoma via its ability to inhibit CTGF-associated increased TM contractility.

The role of YAP1 target gene CTGF in the anoikis resistance of rheumatoid arthritis synovial fibroblasts.

To analyse pro-survival mechanisms elicited in RA synovial fibroblasts (RASFs) upon detachment from their extracellular matrix dependent on the disintegrin metalloproteinase ADAM15 and Yes-associated protein kinase 1 (YAP1). Detachment-induced apoptosis was determined by caspase 3/7 assays. Immunofluorescent stainings, cell surface biotinylation and immunoblotting were applied to analyse phosphorylated kinases and subcellular localization of YAP1 and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF). Caspase and transwell transmigration assays served to study CTGF function. Silencing of ADAM15 or YAP1 in RASFs leads to significantly increased levels of detachment-induced caspase activity. In non-silenced RASFs detachment causes simultaneous ADAM15-enhanced phosphorylation of YAP1 at S127, known for promoting its cytoplasmic localization, and Src-dependent phosphorylation at tyrosine Y357. The majority of nuclear YAP1 leaves the nucleus shortly after cell detachment, but prolonged detachment causes a marked nuclear re-entry of YAP1, resulting in significantly increased synthesis of CTGF. The newly synthesized CTGF, however, is not detectable in the supernatant, but is bound to the outside of the plasma membrane. In vitro studies demonstrated autocrine binding of CTGF to the EGF receptor and β1 integrin, with concomitant triggering of survival kinases, AKT1, ERK1/2, Src and focal adhesion kinase. Functional studies revealed anti-apoptotic effects of CTGF on detached RASFs and an enhancement of their potential for endothelial transmigration using HUVEC-coated transwells. The elucidation of a new molecular mechanism that protects RASFs in the highly pro-apoptotic environment of inflamed RA joints by promoting anoikis-resistance and transendothelial migration via ADAM15/YAP1-mediated CTGF upregulation uncovers potentially new targets for future therapeutic intervention.

Extracellular ATP promotes angiogenesis and adhesion of TNBC cells to endothelial cells via upregulation of CTGF.

Our previous works have indicated that extracellular ATP is an important prometastasis factor. However, the molecular mechanism involved needs to be further studied. We demonstrated that extracellular ATP treatment could upregulate the expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in both triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells and endothelial cells (ECs). Extracellular ATP stimulated the migration of TNBC cells and ECs, and angiogenesis of ECs via the P2Y2––YAP‐CTGF axis. Furthermore, we demonstrated that adenosine triphosphate (ATP) stimulated TNBC cell adhesion to ECs and transmigration through the EC layer via CTGF by upregulation of integrin β1 on TNBC cells and VCAM‐1 on ECs. Both apyrase (ATP‐diphosphohydrolase) and CTGF shRNA treatments could inhibit the metastasis of inoculated tumors to lung and liver in a mouse model, and these treated tumors had fewer blood vessels. Collectively, our data indicated that extracellular ATP promotes tumor angiogenesis and the interactions between TNBC cells and ECs through upregulation of CTGF, thereby stimulating TNBC metastasis. The pleiotropic effects of ATP in angiogenesis and cell adhesion suggest that extracellular ATP or CTGF could be an effective target for TNBC therapy.

Connective tissue growth factor mediates bone morphogenetic protein 2-induced increase in hyaluronan production in luteinized human granulosa cells

BackgroundHyaluronan is the main component of the cumulus-oocyte complex (COC) matrix, and it maintains the basic structure of the COC during ovulation. As a member of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily, bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) has been identified as a critical regulator of mammalian folliculogenesis and ovulation. However, whether BMP2 can regulate the production of hyaluronan in human granulosa cells has never been elucidated.MethodsIn the present study, we investigated the effect of BMP2 on the production of hyaluronan and the underlying molecular mechanism using both immortalized (SVOG) and primary human granulosa-lutein (hGL) cells. The expression of three hyaluronan synthases (including HAS1, HAS2 and HAS3) were examined following cell incubation with BMP2 at different concentrations. The concentrations of the hyaluronan cell culture medium were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The TGF-β type I receptor inhibitors (dorsomorphin and DMH-1) and small interfering RNAs targeting ALK2, ALK3, ALK6 and SMAD4 were used to investigate the involvement of TGF-β type I receptor and SMAD-dependent pathway.ResultsOur results showed that BMP2 treatment significantly increased the production of hyaluronan by upregulating the expression of hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2). In addition, BMP2 upregulates the expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), which subsequently mediates the BMP2-induced increases in HAS2 expression and hyaluronan production because overexpression of CTGF enhances, whereas knockdown of CTGF reverses, these effects. Notably, using kinase inhibitor- and siRNA-mediated knockdown approaches, we demonstrated that the inductive effect of BMP2 on the upregulation of CTGF is mediated by the ALK2/ALK3-mediated SMAD-dependent signaling pathway.ConclusionsOur findings provide new insight into the molecular mechanism by which BMP2 promotes the production of hyaluronan in human granulosa cells.

Liquiritigenin Blocks Breast Cancer Progression by Inhibiting Connective Tissue Growth Factor Expression via Up-Regulating miR-383-5p.

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of liquiritigenin (LQ) on breast cancer (BC) and its mechanism. After BC cell lines and normal mammary epithelial cells were cultured with LQ, CCK-8, and Scratch, Transwell assays and flow cytometry were applied to test the effect of LQ on cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and apoptosis. The effect of LQ on the expression of microRNA-383-5p (miR-383-5p) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) was measured by qRT-PCR and Western blotting. Bioinformatics prediction was used to evaluate the binding relationship between miR-383-5p and CTGF, which was verified by dual-luciferase reporter assay. After miR-383-5p and/or CTGF expression was upregulated through cell transfection, the relationship between miR-383-5p and CTGF, as well as their effects on BC, was further assessed. The results showed that LQ can significantly inhibit CTGF expression and the proliferative, migratory, and invasive abilities of BC cells, while facilitating apoptosis of BC cells and miR-383-5p expression. The inhibiting effect of LQ was dose-dependently enhanced in BC cells. Dual-luciferase reporter assay verified that miR-383-5p targeted CTGF. CTGF expression was inversely regulated by miR-383-5p. CTGF upregulation repressed the suppressive effect of miR-385-5p on BC cell development. In conclusion, LQ can inhibit CTGF expression by upregulating miR-383-5p, thereby inhibiting proliferative, migratory, and invasive abilities and promoting apoptosis of BC cells.

Connective-Tissue Growth Factor Contributes to TGF-β1-induced Lung Fibrosis.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a fatal lung disease characterized by progressive and excessive accumulation of myofibroblasts and in the lung. Connective-tissue growth factor (CTGF) exacerbates pulmonary fibrosis in radiation-induced lung fibrosis, and in this study, we demonstrate upregulation of CTGF in a rat lung fibrosis model induced by an adenovirus vector encoding active TGF-β1 (AdTGF-β1). We show that CTGF is also upregulated in patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Expression of CTGF was upregulated in vascular smooth muscle cells cultured from fibrotic lungs on Days 7 and 14 as well as endothelial cells sorted from fibrotic lungs on Days 14 and 28. These findings suggest contributions of different cells in maintaining the fibrotic phenotype during fibrogenesis. Treatment of fibroblasts with recombinant CTGF along with TGF-β increases profibrotic markers in fibroblasts, confirming the synergistic effect of recombinant CTGF with TGF-β in inducing pulmonary fibrosis. Also, the fibrotic extracellular matrix upregulated CTGF expression, compared with the normal extracellular matrix, suggesting that not only profibrotic mediators but also a profibrotic environment contributes to fibrogenesis. We also showed that pamrevlumab, a CTGF inhibitory antibody, partially attenuates fibrosis in the model. These results suggest that pamrevlumab could be an option for treatment of pulmonary fibrosis.

PD48-05 FINDING THE CAUSE OF THE CURVE: DEVELOPMENT OF AN IN VITRO 3D PEYRONIE'S DISEASE MODEL

You have accessJournal of UrologySexual Function/Dysfunction: Peyronie's Disease (PD48)1 Sep 2021PD48-05 FINDING THE CAUSE OF THE CURVE: DEVELOPMENT OF AN IN VITRO 3D PEYRONIE'S DISEASE MODEL Luke Witherspoon, Meghan Robinson, and Ryan Flannigan Luke WitherspoonLuke Witherspoon More articles by this author , Meghan RobinsonMeghan Robinson More articles by this author , and Ryan FlanniganRyan Flannigan More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000002070.05AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Understanding of the pathophysiology of Peyronie’s disease is limited. A mechanistic Peyronie’s disease model remains elusive, with currently available animal models representing induced penile fibrosis, and thus do not replicate the actual disease state. This study set out to develop a 3-dimensional (3D) in vitro model to elucidate the pathogenesis of Peyronie’s disease. METHODS: Peyronie’s plaque tissues were placed in explant culture and expanded. Early passage cells were dissociated and placed either in 6-well culture plates for 2D culture, Aggrewell800 plates to form 3D spheroids, or in a collagen-based hydrogel. To induce Peyronie’s disease pathogenesis, Transforming Growth Factor Beta (TGFβ) was added to cultures at 3 ng/mL for 48 hours. Gene expression was analysed by real time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and changes in morphology and cell phenotype were assessed by immunocytochemistry. RESULTS: In 2D plaque cell cultures, exposure to TGFβ for 48 hours resulted in upregulation of genes associated with extracellular matrix protein production such as collagen I (COL1A1), collagen III (COL3A1), elastin (ELN) and Connective Tissue Growth Factor (CTGF) (Figure D). In contrast, 3D cultures displayed a more modest upregulation of COL3A1 and CTGF, but nevertheless were able to attach and spread after 48 hours, indicating increased deposition of matrix proteins (Figures A-C). The smooth muscle gene Alpha Smooth Muscle Actin 2 (aSMA2/ACTA2), a known marker of myofibroblasts and fibrosis, was upregulated in 2D cultures only, indicating a difference in the reactivity of the plaque cells in 3D versus 2D cultures. CONCLUSIONS: This study describes two novel 3D culture models of Peyronie’s Disease and shows that the pro-fibrotic response differs in 3D environments compared to standard 2D cell culture, illustrating the importance of creating in vitro models that closely resemble the in vivo environment. Source of Funding: None © 2021 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 206Issue Supplement 3September 2021Page: e840-e840 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2021 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Luke Witherspoon More articles by this author Meghan Robinson More articles by this author Ryan Flannigan More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement Loading ...

BMP6 increases CD68 expression by up-regulating CTGF expression in human granulosa-lutein cells

Bone morphogenetic protein 6 (BMP6) and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) are critical growth factors required for normal follicular development and luteal function. Cluster of Differentiation 68 (CD68) is an intraovarian marker of macrophages that plays an important role in modulating the physiological regression of the corpus luteum. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of BMP6 on the expression of CTGF and the subsequent increase in CD68 expression as well as its underlying mechanisms. Primary and immortalized (SVOG) human granulosa cells obtained from infertile women undergoing in vitro fertilization treatment were used as cell models to conduct the in vitro experiments. Our results showed that BMP6 treatment significantly increased the expression levels of CTGF and CD68. Using BMP type I receptor inhibitors (dorsomorphin, DMH-1 and SB431542), we demonstrated that both activin receptor-like kinase (ALK)2 and ALK3 are involved in BMP6-induced stimulatory effects on the expression of CTGF and CD68. Additionally, SMAD4-knock down reversed the BMP6-induced up-regulation of CTGF and CD68, indicating that the canonical SMAD signaling pathway is required for these effects. Moreover, CTGF-knock down abolished the BMP6-induced up-regulation of CD68 expression. These findings indicate that intrafollicular CTGF mediates BMP6-induced increases in CD68 expression through the ALK2/ALK3-mediated SMAD-dependent signaling pathway.

Dysregulation of PI3K and Hippo signaling pathways synergistically induces chronic pancreatitis via CTGF upregulation.

The role of PI3K and Hippo signaling in chronic pancreatitis (CP) pathogenesis is unclear. Therefore, we assessed the involvement of these pathways in CP by examining the PI3K and Hippo signaling components PTEN and SAV1, respectively. We observed significant decreases in pancreatic PTEN and SAV1 levels in 2 murine CP models: repeated cerulein injection and pancreatic ductal ligation. Additionally, pancreas-specific deletion of Pten and Sav1 (DKO) induced CP in mice. Pancreatic connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) was markedly upregulated in both CP models and DKO mice, and pancreatic CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein-α (CEBPA) expression was downregulated in the CP models. Interestingly, in pancreatic acinar cells (PACs), CEBPA knockdown reduced PTEN and SAV1 and increased CTGF levels in vitro. Furthermore, CEBPA knockdown in PACs induced acinar-to-ductal metaplasia and activation of cocultured macrophages and pancreatic stellate cells. These results were mitigated by CTGF inhibition. CP in DKO mice was also ameliorated by Ctgf gene deletion, and cerulein-induced CP was alleviated by antibody-mediated CTGF neutralization. Finally, we observed significantly decreased PTEN, SAV1, and CEBPA and increased CTGF levels in human CP tissues compared with nonpancreatitis tissues. Taken together, our results indicate that dysregulation of PI3K and Hippo signaling induces CP via CTGF upregulation.

ECM1: A CTGF Binding Protein Inhibiting Ductular Reaction and Liver Fibrosis

IntroductionExtracellular matrix protein 1 (ECM1) has inhibitory roles against transforming growth factor (TGF)β activation and liver fibrosis. We have identified ECM1 as binding protein for connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in yeast two‐hybrid analysis. This study aims to determine whether ECM1 binding inhibits CTGF‐mediated ductular reaction and liver fibrosis.MethodsMice were fed with 3,5‐diethoxycarbonyl‐1,4‐dihydrocollidine (DDC) to induce ductular reaction and liver fibrosis. ECM1 was overexpressed in adenovirus and intravenously injected into animals before DDC feeding. ECM1 interaction with CTGF, and their effects on liver injury after DDC feeding were analyzed.ResultsECM1 downregulation was correlated with CTGF upregulation during DDC‐induced liver injury. ECM1 overexpression after DDC feeding caused low levels of EpCAM and Sox9 mRNAs, small areas of EpCAM+ cells, and few proliferating ductular epithelial cells in comparison to controls that received GFP adenovirus. Weak fibrogenesis was also observed in the Ecm1 overexpressing livers, as evidenced by low levels of fibrosis‐related genes, small fibrotic areas in staining with α smooth muscle actin antibody and Sirius red as well as low collagen production determined by hepatic hydroxyproline content. Finally, we found that ECM1 could interact with CTGF and integrin αvβ6 leading to low TGFβ activation in vitro and in vivo.ConclusionThese observations indicate that ECM1 is a novel binding protein for CTGF. Its overexpression significantly reduces DDC‐induced ductular reaction and fibrogenic reaction, supporting anti‐fibrotic potentials of this molecule for the treatment of chronic liver disease.Support or Funding InformationThis study is supported by National Institutes of Health NIAAA KO1AA024174 grant and Children Miracle Research Foundation grant awarded to L Pi.

Exosomes derived from platelet-rich plasma activate YAP and promote the fibrogenic activity of Müller cells via the PI3K/Akt pathway

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of exosomes derived from platelet-rich plasma (PRP-Exos) in the regulation of the fibrogenic activity of Müller cells and the underlying mechanism. We studied the effects of PRP-Exos on the fibrogenic activity of human retinal Müller cells (hMCs) in vitro. PRP-Exos were isolated from the plasma of diabetic rats (DM-PRP-Exos) and normal control rats (Nor-PRP-Exos) and then observed by transmission electron microscopy. After treatment with DM-PRP-Exos or Nor-PRP-Exos, the proliferation and migration of hMCs were measured in vitro. Western blotting was conducted to assess the levels of fibrogenic molecules and activation of Yes-associated protein (YAP) and the PI3K-Akt signalling pathway. In cultured hMCs, DM-PRP-Exos but not Nor-PRP-Exos effectively increased the proliferative and migratory activities and improved connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) and fibronectin expression. Genetic and pharmacological suppression of YAP could reduce the proliferative and migratory activities of hMCs induced by DM-PRP-Exo. Additionally, YAP knockdown inhibited the DM-PRP-Exo-induced up-regulation of CTGF and fibronectin. Furthermore, DM-PRP-Exo-induced PI3K-Akt signalling mediated YAP activation and the expression of CTGF and fibronectin. In summary, DM-PRP-Exos, through YAP activation, enhance both the proliferation and fibrogenic activity of Müller cells via the PI3K/Akt pathway.

P5442The non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist finerenone prevents structural cardiac remodeling

Abstract Background Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) signaling mediates cardiac fibrosis. We studied the ability of the non-steroidal MR antagonist finerenone to prevent fibrotic remodeling. Methods and results In neonatal rat cardiac fibroblasts, finerenone prevented aldosterone-induced nuclear MR translocation. Treatment with finerenone decreased the expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) (74±15% of control, p=0.005) and prevented aldosterone-induced upregulation of CTGF and lysyl oxidase (LOX) completely. Transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) upregulation induced through the Rac1 GTPase activator L-buthionine sulfoximine was attenuated by finerenone. Transgenic mice with cardiac-specific overexpression of Rac1 (RacET) showed increased left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic (63.7±8.0 vs. 93.8±25.6μl, p=0.027) and end-systolic (28.0±4.0 vs. 49.5±16.7μl, p=0.014) volumes compared to wild-type FVBN control mice. Treatment of RacET mice with 100ppm finerenone over 5 months prevented LV dilatation. Systolic and diastolic LV function was similarly preserved in the three groups. RacET mice exhibited overactivation of MR and 11β hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2. Both effects were reduced by finerenone (reduction about 36%, p=0.030, and 40%, p=0.032, respectively). RacET mice demonstrated overexpression of TGF-β, CTGF, LOX as well as collagen and myocardial fibrosis in the left ventricle. In contrast, expression of these parameters did not differ between finerenone-treated RacET and control mice. Finerenone prevented left atrial dilatation (6.4±1.5 vs. 4.7±1.4mg, p=0.004) and left atrial fibrosis (17.8±3.1 vs. 12.8±3.1%, p=0.046) compared to vehicle-treated RacET mice. The prevalence of atrial arrhythmias at 5 months did not differ between finerenone- and vehicle-treated RacET mice. Conclusion Finerenone prevented from MR-mediated structural remodeling in cardiac fibroblasts and in RacET mice. These data demonstrate anti-fibrotic myocardial properties of finerenone.

Overexpression of connective tissue growth factor is associated with tumor progression and unfavorable prognosis in endometrial cancer.

This study was to explore the prognostic value of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) expression in endometrial cancer (EC). We compared CTGF expression in 198 samples from patients with endometrial cancer and 50 samples from patients with healthy endometrial tissues as determined by immunohistochemistry. Expression of CTGF was significantly higher in endometrial cancers as compared to normal endometrial tissues. Positive CTGF expression displayed a strong association with CA125 level, histological grade, depth of myometrial invasion and the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) stage. Our findings revealed histological grade, depth of myometrial invasion, FIGO stage, vascular/lymphatic invasion, and the CTGF expression are related to 5-year survival in patients with endometrial cancer. Positive CTGF expression, lymph node status, as well as vascular/lymphatic invasion, were identified as independent prognostic factors in endometrial cancer. Over-expression of CTGF is an independent prognostic factor that will allow the successful differentiation of high-risk population from the group of patients with stage III-IV endometrial cancer. The up-regulation of CTGF may contribute to the progression of endometrial cancer and serve as a new prognostic biomarker in patients with endometrial cancer survival.

The non-steroidal mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist finerenone prevents cardiac fibrotic remodeling

Mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) overactivation promotes cardiac fibrosis. We studied the ability of the non-steroidal MR antagonist finerenone to prevent fibrotic remodeling. In neonatal rat cardiac fibroblasts, finerenone prevented aldosterone-induced nuclear MR translocation. Treatment with finerenone decreased the expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) (74 ± 15% of control, p = 0.005) and prevented aldosterone-induced upregulation of CTGF and lysyl oxidase (LOX) completely. Finerenone attenuated the upregulation of transforming growth factor ß (TGF-ß), which was induced by the Rac1 GTPase activator l-buthionine sulfoximine. Transgenic mice with cardiac-specific overexpression of Rac1 (RacET) showed increased left ventricular (LV) end-diastolic (63.7 ± 8.0 vs. 93.8 ± 25.6 µl, p = 0.027) and end-systolic (28.0 ± 4.0 vs. 49.5 ± 16.7 µl, p = 0.014) volumes compared to wild-type FVBN control mice. Treatment of RacET mice with 100 ppm finerenone over 5 months prevented LV dilatation. Systolic and diastolic LV function did not differ between the three groups. RacET mice exhibited overactivation of MR and 11ß hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2. Both effects were reduced by finerenone (reduction about 36%, p = 0.030, and 40%, p = 0.032, respectively). RacET mice demonstrated overexpression of TGF-ß, CTGF, LOX, osteopontin as well as collagen and myocardial fibrosis in the left ventricle. In contrast, expression of these parameters did not differ between finerenone-treated RacET and control mice. Finerenone prevented left atrial dilatation (6.4 ± 1.5 vs. 4.7 ± 1.4 mg, p = 0.004) and left atrial fibrosis (17.8 ± 3.1 vs. 12.8 ± 3.1%, p = 0.046) compared to vehicle-treated RacET mice. In summary, finerenone prevented from MR-mediated structural remodeling in cardiac fibroblasts and in RacET mice. These data demonstrate anti-fibrotic myocardial effects of finerenone.

Abstract 3047: Connective tissue growth factor: Novel therapeutic target for non-small cell lung cancer

Abstract Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), which accounts for 85% of all lung cancer cases, includes adenocarcinoma, squamous cell lung carcinoma and large-cell lung carcinoma. Despite recent advances in targeted therapies for adenocarcinoma, they are effective in only a small percentage of patients while there are no targeted therapies available for squamous cell lung cancer. Therefore, it is critical to identify novel intervention strategies against NSCLC. In the present study, we have identified connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) as a possible therapeutic target for NSCLC. CTGF is an extracellular-matrix (ECM) associated protein, which is involved in cellular processes like cell adhesion, migration, proliferation, differentiation, survival, apoptosis and senescence. CTGF has been associated with both oncogenic as well as tumor suppressive activities in context of different cancer types. The function of CTGF in lung cancer pathogenesis remains controversial. We performed immunohistochemistry on tissue microarray containing 60 cases, which clearly suggested that CTGF expression increases in lung carcinoma. More specifically, among other subtypes, squamous cell lung cancer cases expressed more CTGF compared to their matched normal tissues. To determine the functional role of CTGF in NSCLC, we employed both genetic and pharmacologic approaches to inhibit CTGF activity. Our results clearly demonstrated that CTGF inhibition by both lentiviral knockdown as well as monoclonal antibody against CTGF (FG-3019) caused marked inhibition in cell proliferation, colony formation and xenograft growth in immunodeficient mice. We have also found that CTGF knockdown causes cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Furthermore, we tested the efficacy of FG-3019 along with drugs like cisplatin and gemcitabine in patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model of squamous cell lung cancer. Our results demonstrated that CTGF inhibition enhances the effects of gemcitabine chemotherapy in PDX model of squamous cell lung carcinoma. These results clearly suggested that CTGF has a profound effect on lung tumorigenesis, as its inhibition not only causes attenuation in tumor growth but also potentiates the chemotherapeutic sensitivity of commonly used drugs for NSCLC. We have also elucidated that tumor hypoxia and Yap signaling are responsible for CTGF up-regulation in lung carcinoma. Overall, our study underscores the significance of CTGF inhibition in non-small cell lung carcinoma and offers the potential use of FG-3019 for its treatment. Citation Format: Priyanka Chaudhary, Marie-Liesse Labat, Guangfang Wang, Mark Onaitis. Connective tissue growth factor: Novel therapeutic target for non-small cell lung cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2019; 2019 Mar 29-Apr 3; Atlanta, GA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(13 Suppl):Abstract nr 3047.

Involvement of lncR-30245 in Myocardial Infarction–Induced Cardiac Fibrosis Through Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-γ–Mediated Connective Tissue Growth Factor Signalling Pathway

BackgroundLong noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as important mediators of cardiac pathophysiology. The aim of the present study is to investigate the effects of lncR-30245, an lncRNA, on cardiac fibrogenesis and the underlying mechanism. MethodsMyocardial infarction (MI) and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 were used to induce fibrotic phenotypes. Cardiac fibrosis was detected by Masson’s trichrome staining. Cardiac function was evaluated by echocardiography. Western blot, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and pharmacological approaches were used to investigate the role of lncR-30245 in cardiac fibrogenesis. ResultsExpression of lncR-30245 was significantly increased in MI hearts and TGF-β1–treated cardiac fibroblasts (CFs). LncR-30245 was mainly located in the cytoplasm. Overexpression of lncR-30245 promoted collagen production and CF proliferation. Knockdown of lncR-30245 significantly inhibited TGF-β1–induced collagen production and CF proliferation. LncR-30245 overexpression inhibited the antifibrotic role of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR)-γ and increased connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) expression, whereas lncR-30245 knockdown exerted the opposite effects. Rosiglitazone, a PPAR-γ agonist, significantly inhibited lncR-30245–induced CTGF upregulation and collagen production in CFs. In contrast, T0070907, a PPAR-γ antagonist, attenuated the inhibitory effects of lncR-30245 small interfering RNA (siRNA) on TGF-β1–induced CTGF expression and collagen production. LncR-30245 knockdown significantly enhanced ejection fraction and fractional shortening and attenuated cardiac fibrosis in MI mice. ConclusionOur study indicates that the lncR-30245/PPAR-γ/CTGF pathway mediates MI-induced cardiac fibrosis and might be a therapeutic target for various cardiac diseases associated with fibrosis.